Gents,

I am getting ready to remove the windows, tracks, etc from the doors on my 55. Do I need a special tool to remove the window and door handles and after I get them off, do I remove all bolts to get this all out?

Thanks

 

the only special tool is to remove the window and inside door handle. both have a C clip that needs to be pushed aside and then the handle comes off the splined shaft. Then take the window regulator out and the window will drop tot he bottom. then take the rear channel out and everything else will un-bolt or un-screw. The door lock is held by a C clip that is concealed under the weather stripping.

try this for handle removal.
http://www.ricksfreeautorepairadvice...hout-a-diagram

 

When I had this question someone mentioned Using a rag by sliding it through the gap catching part of it on the clip and pulling it out. I wasn't able to get this to work as my clips didn't stick out.

I ended up using the widest flathead i had, pushed it into the grove, and twisted it to where I could see the clip. Then I used the smallest flathead I had and pushed the clip outward. It worked but was time consuming.

I would buy the tool if you have time. I had to get mine off that next day so I couldn't wait for shipping.

Good luck.

 

Thanks guys. My clips don't seem to show either, so I believe I will invest in the tool, since I have time. I have one, but of course it is for a different clip type. Mainly wanted to get the glass, etc out so I can weld up some old mirror mount holes.

Pat

 

I used a set of cheap detail picks (Harbor Freight sells a set for $1.99) and found they work well for getting at the clips. Sometimes even with the clip removed, the handle is locked on the shaft with rust. FYI, in 56 they changed to a set screw design for the handles. While not OEM correct, when I bought new handles, I went with the 56 set screw handles. It makes life a lot easier and saves paint/panel damage if you have to remove and replace the handles a lot during a build.

 

I made my own tool from a old choke cable that was too short too use. Just take the end with the **** and remove the outer sheath, this leaves you with the **** and stem with the inner cable. Cut the cable about 4 in. from the end of the stem and bend a small hook on the end . This tool can be used for many uses such as door handle clips and headlite adjuster springs to name two.

Have A Great Day ------ Hotwrench
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I removed the handles, glass, divider, etc. on my '53 yesterday. I tried using a special tool for the clips on the handles, but it didn't work for me. I used a very small flat screwdiver and pushed the clips off. The most useful tool for this process was the posting by Dan (das54), How to install the window, division bar, channels, and regulators in the door of a '54. (3/28/12) Thanks Dan.

 

I finished stripping the paint off the first door and started working on the second one. Removing the handles was just as tough this time. The clips on the door handle and window crank are challenging. I thought about cutting the handles off being I'll most likely replace them anyway. My stubborness kept me from cutting them, but that probably would have been the smarter way to do it. It would have been a lot easier removing the divider if the access hole would have been an inch larger. The people designing these two parts must have been mad at each other and didn't talk about how tough this would be for assembly.